Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe
The Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe is a delightful blend of warm autumn spices and the comforting flavor of pumpkin puree. Perfect for breakfast, as a cozy side dish, or even as a festive treat during the holidays, this sourdough bread is sure to impress. Its unique combination of flavors offers a twist on traditional bread recipes, making it an excellent addition to your fall baking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Irresistible Flavor: The warm spices combined with pumpkin create a deliciously fragrant loaf.
- Versatile Use: Enjoy it as toast, a side dish, or in sandwiches—perfect for any occasion!
- Easy to Follow: With clear instructions, even beginners can master this pumpkin spice sourdough bread.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with wholesome ingredients, this recipe caters to both taste and nutrition.
- Perfect for Fall: Celebrate the season with this cozy bread that embodies the essence of autumn.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the baking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Kitchen scale
- Whisk
- Dough scraper
Importance of Each Tool
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl is essential for combining ingredients without spilling.
- Kitchen scale: Precise measurements ensure consistent results in your sourdough bread.
- Dough scraper: This handy tool helps in handling the sticky dough efficiently.
Ingredients
To create the perfect Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread, you will need the following ingredients:
For the Base Dough
- 1 Cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 Cup Filtered Water (luke warm to speed things up, cold to slow things down)
- 1/2 Cup Inactive Sourdough Starter (mine was pulled from refrigerator)
- 95 Grams Active Sourdough Starter
- 390 Grams Filtered Water
For Flavor and Texture
- 100 Grams Pumpkin Puree
- 530 Grams Bread Flour
- 2 Tsps Fine Sea Salt
- 1 Tbsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1/2 Tbsp Pumpkin Spice
- 1/4 Cup Sugar
How to Make Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Starters
Start by combining both your inactive and active sourdough starters in a mixing bowl. Mix until well blended.
Step 2: Mix Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, combine the filtered water and pumpkin puree. Stir until smooth.
Step 3: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, bread flour, sea salt, cinnamon, pumpkin spice, and sugar.
Step 4: Form the Dough
Gradually add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients. Mix until fully incorporated.
Step 5: Knead
Turn out the dough onto a floured surface. Knead for about 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 6: First Rise
Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl and cover it. Let it rise for about 2 hours or until doubled in size.
Step 7: Shape the Loaf
After rising, gently deflate the dough and shape it into a loaf.
Step 8: Second Rise
Place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover it again and let it rise for another hour.
Step 9: Preheat Oven
While the dough is rising for the second time, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 10: Bake
Once risen, place your loaf in the preheated oven. Bake for about 60 minutes or until golden brown.
Enjoy your freshly baked Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread! This delectable recipe captures all the flavors of fall while being incredibly satisfying to make at home.
How to Serve Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe
Serving your Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread can elevate your fall gatherings and cozy mornings. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy this flavorful bread.
Toasted with Butter
- Toast slices of pumpkin spice sourdough until golden brown and spread with creamy butter for a warm treat.
Pumpkin Spice French Toast
- Dip slices in a mixture of eggs, milk, and spices, then cook on a skillet for a delicious twist on classic French toast.
With Cream Cheese Spread
- Top slices with a velvety cream cheese spread mixed with maple syrup for a sweet and tangy combination.
As a Sandwich Base
- Use the bread as a base for sandwiches filled with turkey, cranberry sauce, and arugula for a festive meal.
Served with Soups
- Pair warm slices alongside hearty soups like butternut squash or lentil soup for a comforting autumn dish.
With Hot Chocolate
- Enjoy your bread with a cup of rich hot chocolate or spiced chai tea to enhance those cozy vibes.

How to Perfect Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe
Perfecting your Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread can make all the difference. Follow these helpful tips for the best results.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure that your flour and spices are fresh for optimal flavor in every bite.
- Warm Water: Incorporate lukewarm water when mixing as it helps activate the yeast faster.
- Knead Well: Make sure to knead the dough adequately to develop gluten structure, giving your bread better rise.
- Long Fermentation: Allow the dough to ferment longer at room temperature. This enhances flavor complexity.
- Check Dough Consistency: The dough should be slightly sticky but manageable; adjust flour/water accordingly.
- Cool Completely: Let the bread cool fully before slicing to avoid gummy texture.
Best Side Dishes for Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread can enhance its flavors. Here are some great options.
- Butternut Squash Soup – A creamy, rich soup that complements the spices in the bread.
- Apple Salad – A refreshing mix of greens, apples, nuts, and feta cheese offers a crunchy contrast.
- Cranberry Sauce – The tartness of cranberry sauce pairs perfectly with the sweetness of pumpkin spice.
- Cheese Board – A variety of cheeses alongside fruits and nuts make for an elegant side.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts – These caramelized veggies bring out the warmth of autumn spices in the bread.
- Maple Glazed Carrots – Sweet and savory carrots provide delightful flavor harmony with your meal.
- Stuffed Acorn Squash – A hearty filling will complement the flavors while adding nutritional value.
- Pumpkin Chili – This chili, with its blend of spices and beans, makes an excellent warming dish alongside the bread.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe, it’s easy to make some common errors. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:
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Skipping the starter care: Not feeding your sourdough starter regularly can lead to poor fermentation. Always keep your starter active and bubbly for the best results.
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Incorrect flour measurements: Using too much or too little flour can affect the texture of your bread. Always measure accurately using a kitchen scale for best outcomes.
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Ignoring dough hydration: If the dough feels too dry, it won’t rise well. Adjust the water content as necessary to ensure a moist dough.
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Not preheating the oven: Baking in an unheated oven can result in dense bread. Make sure to preheat your oven fully before placing your loaf inside.
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Overproofing the dough: Leaving your dough to rise for too long can lead to collapse. Keep an eye on it during proofing and shape it once it has doubled in size.
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Cutting into the bread too soon: Slicing the bread before it cools will make it gummy inside. Let it cool completely on a wire rack before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread in an airtight container.
- It can last up to 5 days in the refrigerator without losing quality.
Freezing Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe
- Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the bread in foil and heat for about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place a slice on a microwave-safe plate and heat for about 10-15 seconds. Be careful not to overheat!
- Stovetop: Heat slices in a skillet over low heat until warm, ensuring they don’t burn.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making this delicious Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe:
What makes this Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe special?
This recipe combines traditional sourdough techniques with warm autumn spices and pumpkin puree, creating a cozy loaf perfect for fall.
Can I use whole wheat flour instead of bread flour?
Yes, you can substitute some of the bread flour with whole wheat flour, but be aware that it may alter the texture slightly.
How do I know if my sourdough starter is active enough?
Your starter should be bubbly and have risen at least double its size after feeding. A float test can also help determine its readiness.
Is this Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe vegan?
Yes, this recipe is vegan-friendly since it contains no animal products.
Final Thoughts
The Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe is not only a delightful treat but also versatile enough for various occasions. With its cozy flavors and aromas, it’s perfect for breakfast or as a side dish during fall gatherings. Feel free to customize by adding nuts or dried fruits to enhance its unique taste!

Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 12 servings 1x
Description
Indulge in the warmth of autumn with this Pumpkin Spice Sourdough Bread Recipe, a delightful fusion of traditional sourdough techniques and seasonal flavors. This cozy loaf combines aromatic spices like cinnamon and pumpkin spice with creamy pumpkin puree, resulting in a beautifully fragrant bread that is perfect for breakfast, snacks, or festive gatherings. It’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginners, and will quickly become a cherished addition to your fall baking repertoire. Whether enjoyed toasted with butter or as the base for indulgent French toast, this pumpkin spice sourdough is sure to impress family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 1 Cup All-Purpose Flour
- 1 Cup Filtered Water (luke warm)
- 1/2 Cup Inactive Sourdough Starter
- 95 Grams Active Sourdough Starter
- 390 Grams Filtered Water
- 100 Grams Pumpkin Puree
- 530 Grams Bread Flour
- 2 Tsps Fine Sea Salt
- 1 Tbsp Ground Cinnamon
- 1/2 Tbsp Pumpkin Spice
- 1/4 Cup Sugar
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine inactive and active sourdough starters until blended.
- In another bowl, mix filtered water and pumpkin puree until smooth.
- Whisk together all-purpose flour, bread flour, sea salt, cinnamon, pumpkin spice, and sugar in a separate bowl.
- Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until fully incorporated.
- Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 10 minutes until smooth.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl and let it rise for about 2 hours or until doubled in size.
- Shape the dough into a loaf after deflating it gently.
- Let it rise again for an hour on a lined baking sheet.
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the loaf for approximately 60 minutes or until golden brown.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (67g)
- Calories: 157
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 0.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg